NIH Small Research Grant Program (Parent R03 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)
About
The NIH Small Research Grant Program supports small research projects that can be carried out in a short period of time with limited resources. This program supports different types of projects including pilot and feasibility studies; secondary analysis of existing data; small, self-contained research projects; development of research methodology; and development of new research technology. This Notice of Funding Opportunity does not accept applications proposing clinical trial(s).
The NIH Small Research Grant Program (Parent R03 Clinical Trial Not Allowed) is designed to support researchers and organizations pursuing small-scale research projects that can be completed within a limited timeframe and budget. This program is ideal for pilot and feasibility studies, secondary analysis of existing datasets, self-contained research projects, research methodology development, and new research technology innovation. Unlike many NIH programs, this grant specifically excludes clinical trial applications, making it perfect for foundational and exploratory research. Eligible applicants include HBCUs, Hispanic-serving institutions, Asian American Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institutions, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian Serving Institutions, Indian/Native American Tribal Governments, faith-based and community-based organizations, and eligible federal agencies. Researchers and organizations with limited resources but promising research ideas should apply to advance their work, establish preliminary data, or test innovative approaches without requiring extensive funding. This grant removes barriers for underrepresented institutions and communities seeking to contribute to scientific advancement. With funding up to $50,000, researchers can launch meaningful projects that may lead to larger grants and significant discoveries. Visit the official NIH website for current eligibility requirements and application procedures.
Funding Facts
● Applications openDeadline
January 7, 2028
Award Amount
Up to $50K
Who can apply
Last verified July 5, 2026 · Source: Grants.gov
Grant Details
Grant Amount
Up to $50K
Deadline
2028-01-07
Grant Type
federal
Application Cycle
Annual (Deadline: January 7, 2028)
Best For
Researchers at HBCUs, Hispanic-serving institutions, tribal governments, minority-serving institutions, and community-based organizations pursuing pilot studies, feasibility research, and methodology development
Eligibility
Other Eligible Applicants include the following: Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian Serving Institutions; Asian American Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institutions (AANAPISISs); Eligible Agencies of the Federal Government; Faith-based or Community-based Organizations; Hispanic-serving Institutions; Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs); Indian/Native American Tribal Govern
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for NIH Small Research Grant Program (Parent R03 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)?
Eligible applicants include Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Hispanic-serving institutions, Asian American Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institutions (AANAPISISs), Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian Serving Institutions, Indian/Native American Tribal Governments, faith-based and community-based organizations, and eligible federal agencies. For comprehensive and current eligibility criteria, visit the official NIH funding opportunity announcement on grants.nih.gov.
How much funding does NIH Small Research Grant Program (Parent R03 Clinical Trial Not Allowed) provide?
This program provides funding up to $50,000. The exact amount available may vary by funding cycle and specific project requirements. Check the official NIH website for current funding levels and any restrictions that may apply.
How do I apply for NIH Small Research Grant Program (Parent R03 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)?
Applications are typically submitted through NIH's electronic submission system (eRA Commons/ASSIST). Applicants must prepare a research proposal, budget justification, and supporting documentation according to NIH guidelines. The deadline for this funding opportunity is January 7, 2028. For detailed application instructions, submission requirements, and guidance on the proposal format, visit grants.nih.gov and locate the specific Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for this program.
What can NIH Small Research Grant Program (Parent R03 Clinical Trial Not Allowed) funding be used for?
Funding can support pilot and feasibility studies, secondary analysis of existing data, small self-contained research projects, development of research methodology, and development of new research technology. This program does not accept applications proposing clinical trials. Projects should be designed to be completed within a short timeframe using limited resources, making them ideal for exploratory and foundational research.
Last updated: July 5, 2026